This Reese’s cookie crust is a sweet and indulgent base that takes any dessert to the next level. Made with Reese’s cookies, it adds a rich peanut butter and chocolate flavor that’s perfect for cheesecakes, pies, and layered desserts. It’s a fun twist on the classic graham cracker or Oreo crust, bringing in that signature Reese’s taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this crust turns any dessert into something special. It has the familiar crunch of a cookie crust but with that delicious blend of peanut butter and chocolate. I can make it in just a few minutes with minimal effort, and it always impresses. Whether I’m baking a full cheesecake or just want a no-bake treat, this crust holds up beautifully and adds a unique flavor profile. Plus, it’s easy to customize or adapt depending on what dessert I’m making.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Reese’s cookies (store-bought or homemade)
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Unsalted butter (melted)
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Pinch of salt (optional, enhances flavor)
Directions
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I start by crushing the Reese’s cookies into fine crumbs. I usually use a food processor, but I’ve also done it with a rolling pin and a zip-top bag.
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I combine the cookie crumbs with melted butter in a mixing bowl. I mix until the crumbs are fully coated and resemble wet sand.
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I pour the mixture into my pie or cheesecake pan and press it down firmly using the back of a spoon or the bottom of a measuring cup.
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For a no-bake crust, I chill it in the fridge for at least 1 hour before filling. For a baked crust, I bake it at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, then let it cool before using.
Servings and timing
This crust makes enough for one 9-inch pie or cheesecake base.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Chill time (no-bake): 1 hour
Bake time (optional): 8–10 minutes
Variations
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I sometimes add a tablespoon of sugar to the crumbs for extra sweetness, especially if the cookies are on the mild side.
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For a crunchier texture, I mix in some chopped peanuts or mini chocolate chips.
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I’ve swapped out half the Reese’s cookies for chocolate graham crackers for a milder peanut butter flavor.
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For a salted twist, I sprinkle sea salt on top before chilling or baking.
storage/reheating
I store the crust (unfilled) in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If I’ve already filled it, I follow the storage recommendations for the whole dessert. For longer storage, I freeze the crust (wrapped tightly) for up to a month. If I bake the crust first, I let it cool completely before storing or freezing. I don’t reheat this type of crust since it’s typically used cold.
FAQs
How do I keep the crust from crumbling when slicing?
I make sure the crumbs are finely ground and mixed thoroughly with enough butter. Pressing the mixture down firmly also helps it hold together when sliced.
Can I use homemade Reese’s cookies?
Yes, I’ve used homemade cookies, and they work great. I just make sure they’re crisp and dry enough to grind into crumbs.
Is this crust too sweet for a cheesecake?
Not at all. The peanut butter and chocolate complement a creamy cheesecake nicely. I sometimes reduce added sugar in the filling if I want to balance sweetness.
Can I make this crust gluten-free?
Absolutely. I use gluten-free Reese’s cookies or similar alternatives. Just make sure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Should I bake the crust or leave it no-bake?
It depends on the dessert. I use the no-bake method for chilled pies, but if I want a firmer base (like for cheesecake), I usually bake it for a few minutes.
Conclusion
This Reese’s cookie crust is one of my favorite ways to elevate a dessert with minimal effort. It’s rich, flavorful, and holds up beautifully whether I bake it or not. Whether I’m making a no-bake pie or a baked cheesecake, this crust always brings that extra something special to the table.
Print
Reese’s Cookie Crust
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 1 9-inch pie or cheesecake crust
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake or Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Reese’s cookie crust is a rich and indulgent dessert base made with crushed Reese’s cookies and melted butter. It offers a perfect blend of peanut butter and chocolate flavors, ideal for cheesecakes, pies, and no-bake desserts.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Reese’s cookies, finely crushed (store-bought or homemade)
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions
- Crush the Reese’s cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or by sealing them in a zip-top bag and rolling with a pin.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cookie crumbs with melted butter and a pinch of salt if using. Stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
- Press the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie or cheesecake pan using the back of a spoon or measuring cup.
- For a no-bake crust, chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before filling.
- For a baked crust, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), bake for 8–10 minutes, then allow to cool completely before filling.
Notes
- Use finely ground crumbs and press the crust firmly to prevent crumbling when slicing.
- Add a tablespoon of sugar for extra sweetness if desired.
- Mix in chopped peanuts or mini chocolate chips for added texture.
- Substitute half the cookies with chocolate graham crackers for a milder flavor.
- Sprinkle sea salt on top for a salty-sweet twist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of crust)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg